Why do I need a Will today?

1. More people (statistically) die at Christmas time, than any other time of the year.

It might surprise you too know that according to numerous studies and statistics[1], Christmas Day is regularly recorded as the day with the highest rate of deaths, closely followed by Boxing Day and New Years Day! This is also a trend I noticed personally when working in the aged care field in my university student days, with a noticeable increase in our beloved clients passing away over this period each year.

Causes for this phenomenon are not known, and it is a trend which includes those dying of natural causes, broken hearts and a myriad of other causes. Some of the factors of the season thought to be responsible include increased stress levels, senior medical staff being on leave, people withholding illness and injury for fear of ruining the holidays, and the like. Suicide rates, on the other hand, do not generally increase over this period.

2. Increased long-distance travel

We all know the feeling of dread as you pack the family into the car after being woken at 4am by excited children to drive 2, 3, 4 or more hours to visit family for Christmas lunch or dinner! It goes without saying that with an increased amount of weary (or otherwise affected) travellers on our roads, it is important to take extra special care to reduce your risk of becoming a holiday road toll statistic.

Shopping centre car parks at Christmas time also deserve a mention, in my own personal view, as at least a factor in all the increased stress and anxiety that places people with cardiac issues at additional risk, if not an actual hazard to a person’s health!

3. Queensland summer

While you may be well hydrated as you enjoy a cool drink by the pool, spare a thought for the elderly neighbour two doors down who refuses to run their air conditioning because they cannot afford the rise in cost of their electricity bill or who drinks only cups of tea, making him or her chronically dehydrated at the best of times. As temps sore across the holidays, those vulnerable in our communities will rely on concerned family, friends and neighbours to be giving of their time and spirit as much as they are giving of good food, cheer and gifts.

Let’s all really’ take care’ of ourselves and each other over the festive season.

Turner Freeman Lawyers – Wills & Estates specialists

To ensure your family is prepared for the seldom discussed perils of the festive season, it is important to review your existing will and power of attorney documents, or use some of your spare time while on holidays to finally get around to preparing these invaluable documents. To discuss your estate planning needs or to arrange your appointment to make/ review your estate plan, please do not hesitate to contact Turner Freeman Lawyers Wills and Estates Team on (07) 3025 9000. Our Queensland offices are in Brisbane, Logan, North Lakes, Ipswich, Toowoomba, Gold Coast, Sunshine Coast and Cairns.